Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

To the Editor:

We’d like Elizabethton, Tenn. pet owners to take a moment and look at the world through their dog’s eyes. Eating, sleeping and playing take up most of their day. The one job they do have, at least in their minds, is protecting their turf and their family.

“It’s OK, he won’t bite you,” is a phrase heard often by letter carriers. But the truth is that ALL dogs will bite if they feel their territory or family is being threatened.

When you expect a delivery, keep your dog inside or confined out of reach of your door to protect your postal carrier or anybody else who may visit your home. Before opening your door to accept or sign for a package, keep your pet in another room, out of sight of what they may see as a frightening transaction. Make sure any children in the house understand the need of keeping the family pet separate from visitors at the entrance.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Dog bites account for more than one-third of all liability claims against homeowners insurance.

With your help, we can keep our carriers, your neighbors and your dog safe. Thank you for being a responsible pet owner and for protecting your pet, and our letter carrier, as we continue to bring packages and other important correspondence to your door each day.

 

Sincerely,

Jo Morrell-Hill

Officer In Charge

Elizabethton Post Office